People have different ways by which they take compliments. But, what is a compliment? According to the Pengiun English Dictionary: A compliment is an expression of esteem, affection or admiration esp. a flattering remark.

From the foregoing definition a compliment is an exprssion of one's feeeling to another. It is verbal communication. Hence, like any other forms of communication requres a response in affirmation. Let take a scenario. Mary just arrived to her work place, after a holiday and was wearing a pair of shoes she bought. Sam said to her, " Mary those are lovely shoes." Mary felt flattered and replies; "I bought them in a charity shop."

In this example, Mary would have just thanked Sam for his comment, which as very positive. She could continue the conversation by asking Sam, whether he likes it.

Most compliments may be have a positive intent, but if the perception of the person who is receiving it is blurred, it may be negative. This results in people giving different viewpoint to compliment.

The best way too take a compliment is to affirm it. And, also to be ready to meaningfullt engage in dialogue resulting from the complement.

So next time you receive a compliment; say thank you very much. That was nice of you. It releases your feelings and fills you with positive emotions. Enjoy the moment!

©2008 Benjamin Ugoji